- Like hair from any ethnic background, too much washing can dry out and damage the hair. This is particularly relevant in the case of African-American hair, which can have problems staying moisturized on its own. All hair is different, but in most African-American hair, you do not need to wash your hair every day. Rinsing with plain water does just fine, and washing every week or so is enough. A good shampoo for African-American hair is Treasured Locks' Nothin' But Nature, which contains natural ingredients and builds strong, healthy hair. As for conditioning, Treasured Locks also sells leave-in conditioners and balms.
- If you have natural hair, it is best to comb/pick out your hair while it is wet. To ease this process, products by Carol's Daughter, such as Healthy Hair Butter, can be worked through the scalp, softening and nurturing it. The thin combs sold in stores usually won't do the trick for combing out African-American hair: you will need a pick or a thick, solid brush found in the African-American hair care section of the supermarket or at Treasured Locks.
- Pink is a popular product for African-American hair that has been permed or relaxed. It is often called hair lotion. It is often applied at the roots of the hair when pressing or perming the hair at home, and is also recommended for women who relax their hair in a salon, rather than doing it themselves at home. The process involves chemicals that can severely damage your hair. But if you insist on doing it at home, perm kits are sold in supermarkets and pharmacies. In addition, for the upkeep of relaxed hair, a flat-iron is a handy tool to keep on hand.
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There is a common worry among African-American women that their hair is not long enough and never will be. The issues of short hair versus long hair, natural hair versus relaxed hair, are prominent ones. As a result, many African-American women flock to pharmacies looking for products that make their hair grow faster and longer.
Unfortunately, there is no magic pill to grow your hair faster, although some women have reported positive findings with Rogaine. Rather than getting a prescription, it is healthier for your hair to use preventative measures rather than quick fixes like Rogaine. Shea butter and other natural moisturizers massaged into the hair and scalp daily prevent the breakage that is so common in African-American hair---especially because of perming/relaxing---and as a result gives you longer hair in the long run. -
When drying your hair upon getting out of the shower, do not rub your hair vigorously with the towel. This can easily cause breakage: African-American hair is fragile. Instead, surround your hair in the towel, squeeze and blot. This dries the hair without breaking it.
An additional warning about perming/relaxing your hair: This practice can cause permanent damage to your hair and scalp. Harsh chemicals are used in the process and are not recommended for continuous use.
